storytelling

American  

[stawr-ee-tel-ing, stohr-] / ˈstɔr iˌtɛl ɪŋ, ˈstoʊr- /

noun

1. the telling or writing of stories or story.

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Etymology

Origin of storytelling

First recorded in 1700–10; story ¹ + telling

Explanation

Storytelling is the art of weaving words into captivating tales, bringing characters and events to life in the minds of an audience of listeners or readers. Whether in ancient myths, bedtime stories, historical accounts, popular novels, or modern movies, effective storytelling can capture our attention by creating vivid mental images and emotional connections. Throughout human history, storytelling has provided a means of passing on knowledge, culture, and values. It can help us understand different perspectives, build empathy, and activate our own imaginations. Storytelling is a fundamental part of the human experience.

Example Sentences

Writing is just one of his many chosen mediums of storytelling; as one of the founders of Drag Story Hour, his resumé is a melding of fashion, fiction, oral histories, archival research and queer history.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

Best to keep in mind that the whole franchise exists not to advance the craft of storytelling but the magic of merchandising.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

“I’m interested in the intersection of technology and storytelling, and seeing how that can push the bounds of creativity to create deeper and richer experiences for audiences.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

The festival has adopted different ways of storytelling in the past 25 years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

There was too much to do, too little time for storytelling.

From "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart

Related Words

• book
• drama
• fable
• fantasy
• imagination
• legend
• myth
• narrative
• novel
• tale
• yarn